Alice Steege

Alice Steege age 94 of Fredericksburg, IA, died Tuesday, January 9, 2024, at Wellington Place in Decorah, IA. A private family service will take place at a later date. Alice Elaine Steege passed away peacefully on January 9, 2024, in Decorah, Iowa. Born on August 5, 1929, in Fredericksburg, Iowa, the daughter of Victor and Hilda (Jacobs) Steege. Alice lived a life marked by enthusiasm, dedication, and a sense of wit. Growing up in the heartland of Iowa, Alice attended a country school near Fredericksburg until the 8th grade, later graduating from Fredericksburg High School in 1947. She was a "Tom Boy" at heart, always embracing the adventures of rural life. Her childhood was filled with moments of riding horses and helping on the family farm, laying the groundwork for a lifelong appreciation of nature. In her professional life, Alice began her journey at a local grocery store in her hometown, where she served the community for a couple of years. She then transitioned to Fredericksburg Farmers Produce, dedicating 12 years to the company. With a desire to impact the lives of young people, Alice shifted her career to become a beloved secretary for the Fredericksburg Community School System. For 28 years, she was a fixture in the educational community, her work ethic and lively personality making her a favorite among staff and students alike. Even after her retirement, Alice's commitment to education did not wane. She continued to serve by driving the school bus for various activities, a testament to her enduring dedication to her community. On January 18, 1986, was united in marriage to Glenn Fennemann. Although their paths later diverged, the experiences they shared contributed to the rich tapestry of Alice's life. Alice's interests evolved over the years, but her love for the great outdoors remained constant. In her youth, she was often seen riding horseback in local parades, a vision of grace and freedom. As time went on, she discovered a new passion in camping and fishing, finding serenity and joy in the simplicity of a line cast into the water and nights spent under the stars. Those who knew Alice will remember her as funny, interesting, and full of life. She had an uncanny ability to talk to about anyone and was a people person. Her stories were captivating, often leaving listeners with a sense of wonder and a smile on their faces. Alice is survived by her nieces and nephews, Marvin (Bev) Steege of Fredericksburg, IA, Darrell (Sharon) Steege of Fredericksburg, IA, Calvin (Janet) Steege of Fredericksburg, IA, LaVonne (Wendell) Tank of New Hampton, IA, Merlin (Clara) Wendt of Story City, IA, Lynette (Gary) Rathbone of New Hampton, IA, Rhonda (Larry) Stange of Waucoma, IA, Marc (Linda) Bigelow of Reno, NV, Janice (Duane) Baumler of Decorah, IA; sister-in-law, Darlene Steege of Fredericksburg, IA. She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Lyle Steege; and two sisters, Ruth (LaVern) Wendt, and Wilma (Curt) Bigelow.